Biman to resume Dhaka–Karachi direct flights from 29 January

Dhaka: Biman Bangladesh Airlines is set to restart direct services on the Dhaka–Karachi route from 29 January, restoring nonstop air links between Bangladesh and Pakistan after more than ten years.

According to officials familiar with the development, the national carrier will initially operate two flights a week on a trial basis until 30 March 2026, with further expansion dependent on passenger demand and operational considerations.

The relaunch follows formal clearance from the Pakistan Civil Aviation Authority, which has authorised Biman to operate on the route and to use designated air corridors within Pakistani airspace.

Currently, most travellers between the two countries are dependent on transit flights through Middle Eastern hubs such as Dubai and Doha. The new direct connection is expected to significantly cut travel time and costs, and boost business, tourism, and interpersonal exchanges.

Biman representatives said discussions with Pakistani regulators had been under way for several months to reopen the route, which last saw direct operations in 2012.

The move coincides with gradually warming bilateral ties, underscored by recent diplomatic contacts and initiatives focused on trade and cooperation between Dhaka and Islamabad.

-B